WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch How Trump Brokered the Israel-Hamas Peace Deal
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Oct 9, 2025 Elliot Kaufman, an Opinion writer and Middle East correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, joins to discuss the recent Gaza ceasefire brokered by Trump. He explains how Trump's backing of Israel changed regional dynamics. Kaufman highlights why Hamas agreed to the deal, the role of Qatar, and Israel's perspective on the agreement. He also addresses the security challenges ahead, such as smuggling and disarmament, and the broader implications for the Abraham Accords and U.S. foreign policy.
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Why Hamas Finally Agreed
- Hamas agreed to release all remaining hostages up front while Israeli forces still controlled much of Gaza, a concession few expected.
- Elliot Kaufman attributes this mainly to renewed Israeli military pressure and pressure from Hamas patrons like Qatar and Turkey.
Qatar's Calculus Shifted
- The Israeli strike in Doha and subsequent pressure constrained Qatar's double game of hosting both U.S. forces and Hamas leaders.
- Kaufman argues Trump's mix of threats and security guarantees pushed Qatar to coerce Hamas toward the deal.
Who Was Pressured To Reach The Deal
- The deal's key element—full upfront hostage release—was Netanyahu's demand and it was achieved, which undermines claims Trump merely pressured Israel.
- Kaufman stresses the deal's success depended on pressuring Hamas, not just persuading Netanyahu.